UCC2817DWG4

Power and efficiency are two important elements in electronic device design, and a good power source is key to delivering both. Seeking to provide a reliable power source, power factor correction (PFC) solutions are developed. This article will discuss the application field and working principle of Texas Instrument’s UCC2817DWG4, a PFC controller designed to offer a wide input range, high performance, and ease of use in regulated boost applications.

The UCC2817DWG4 integrates a 180V power switch, voltage regulator, and a high-resolution, high-efficiency power regulator, providing a single-stage power factor correction solution from mains utility power. Its wide voltage range (90VAC to 264VAC) and wide switching frequency range (45kHz to 400kHz) enable it to work in different applications. The device also features an internal 3.3V linear regulator for driving the high-side MOSFET, an internal 5.4V reference for regulating its voltage, and an integrated high-voltage start-up circuit that can operate from the rectified mains voltage from 90VAC to 350VAC.

The device operates in a power factor correction (PFC) boost topology. It is comprised of three main stages: power conversion, energy control, and protection circuitry. The power conversion stage uses a power switch, typically a MOSFET, to rectify and store energy in an output capacitor. The energy control stage employs a dual analog-to-digital (A/D) converter system to sense and control the output of the PFC circuit. This method is used to ensure the power factor remains within a specific range throughout the entire operating range of the device. The protection circuitry checks the input and output voltages, the output current, and other parameters to guarantee the device is not damaged due to over or under-voltage conditions and excessive load current. In case of failure, the protection circuitry shuts down the device.

The use of UCC2817DWG4 can simplify design and reduce system cost, allowing designers to achieve high power factor and high efficiency in single stage applications. It is suitable for high-performance products with single-stage power conversion designs, including air conditioners, water pumps, and fans. A wide input voltage range and the device’s inherent power factor avoids excessive power losses in the system, making it suitable for applications in a broad range of global markets. Also, its self-protection circuit insures the device optimally operates in constantly changing and difficult-to-control power environments. Furthermore, the device’s flexibility makes it attractive to be used as a solution in other systems.

Thanks to PFC controllers such as UCC2817DWG4, electronics device designs have become more efficient and cost-effective. Despite the device’s advantages, its development and production require extra planning and wiring when compared with using conventional low-power designs. This makes designers consider carefully whether the added expense and complexity are worth the benefits. Nevertheless, it is clear that the use of UCC2817DWG4 is an appropriate choice for engineers seeking solutions which guarantee better power supply efficiency, improved device performance, and higher system reliability.